Limassol, Cyprus. Two women on trial on charges of defrauding Greek Cypriots with properties in the north changed their plea to guilty on Monday at Limassol criminal court and now await sentencing.
Charges and allegations
The defendants, aged 44 and 53, had initially pleaded not guilty. They were charged with securing money under false pretences and money laundering.
According to about two dozen complainants, the defendants extracted large amounts of money by falsely claiming to have ties to the Immovable Property Commission in the north, offering services to Greek Cypriots interested in selling their properties there.
Details of the claimed roles
The 44-year-old defendant allegedly posed as a lawyer with connections in the north, while the 53-year-old claimed to have ties to a Greek Cypriot investor who purchased property in the north.
The first defendant repeatedly asked for money for property valuations and other services, which victims paid in cash or via the Revolut app.
In total, the two defendants were alleged to have defrauded victims of €300,000. The crimes were committed during 2023 to 2025.
Plea bargain and next steps
Following a plea bargain deal, the 44-year-old pleaded guilty to 12 counts of defrauding and four counts of money laundering. The 53-year-old pleaded guilty to two counts of defrauding.
After the change in pleas, prosecutors told the court they would stay prosecutions on counts for which the defendants did not admit guilt.
What factors will the court consider when determining the defendants’ sentences?
